The use of bar soap has been questioned in recent years, with some people claiming that it is unhygienic and spreads germs. But is this really true?
When it comes to hygiene, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding bar soap. Some people believe that bars of soap are unhygienic and can cause bacteria to spread.
Others think that they aren’t as effective at cleaning as liquid soap is. In this guide, we will debunk the myths surrounding bar soap and discuss why it is still a popular choice for keeping clean!
Despite popular belief, bar soap is not inherently unhygienic and can be used effectively with proper use and storage.
Germs are not spread by the use of bar soap when it is rinsed thoroughly after each use and stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Liquid soap is not necessarily more sanitary than bar soap and may even be less effective if not used properly.
Myth: Bar Soap is Unhygienic
One of the most common myths surrounding bar soap is that it is unhygienic and can spread germs. However, this is largely untrue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), using a shared bar of soap does not transmit infectious agents.
In fact, bar soap is a safe and effective way to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria from the skin.
Washing our hands more often has become a part of life in the last year and so it’s reasonable to wonder whether a bar of soap stored in a eco soap dish is as hygienic as liquid soap stored in a plastic bottle.
When you are using a soap bar to wash your hands or body you are touching it directly and then putting it back on the rack to use again at a later date so it’s reasonable to assume it might be harbouring germs and bacteria.
And you can even sometimes see dirt and grime on a bar of soap, especially if it has cracked while drying out. But then so might the bacterial levels present on soap dispensers cause issues.
When you rub the soap its usually under running water so any bacteria from another family member on the soap molecule would be washed away.
Myth: Antibacterial Soap is More Effective
Another myth surrounding bar soap is that antibacterial soap is more effective at killing germs and preventing the spread of infection.
However, this is not necessarily true. The CDC states that regular soap is just as effective as antibacterial soap at removing germs from the skin.
Overuse of antibacterial soap can contribute to the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can be harmful to public health.
But does this mean that it is unhygienic to use a bar of soap?
Or less effective to be washing your hands with bar soap than liquid soap?
The fact is that washing your hands with soap and water, providing you do it properly, make sure you get a good lather and don’t miss half your hand, is just as effective as using liquid soap or antibacterial soap, both of which also need to be used properly to be effective.
Is Bar Soap Effective At Cleaning Your Hands
Unless the soap you are using is labelled as being antibacterial the soap isn’t killing the bacteria on your skin, instead, the surfactants in the soap combined with the water you are washing with are very effective at lifting off dirt, viruses and bacteria and washing them down the drain.
It’s worth noting that it takes a minimum of 15 seconds for soap and water to clean your hands, hence the 20-second advice. So long as you stick to this though you’ve got nothing to worry about using a bar of soap.
Actually, the same rules apply whether your soap is in bar or liquid form from liquid soap dispensers.
Soap bars have been around far longer than liquid soap and there are good reasons to choose a bar or soap over a bottle of it. Not least is the fact that one comes in a plastic bottle and the other generally comes in plastic-free packaging.
Bar soap also tends to be cheaper and last longer so it’s better for your wallet as well as the planet. You can store soap in soap bags and use your own soap bag each if you are worried about bacteria levels.
Always remember to dry soap between uses which will help keep the natural microbiome levels on bar soap lower (and make the soap last a lot longer).
Proper Use and Storage of Bar Soap
To ensure that bar soap is safe and effective to use, it is important to follow a few simple guidelines:
- Rinse the soap thoroughly after each use to remove any dirt, oil, or bacteria that may be on the surface.
- Store the soap in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent the growth of bacteria. A soap dish with drainage holes can be a good option for preventing water buildup.
- Use a clean bar of soap each time to prevent the spread of germs.
Importance of pH Balance in Bar Soap
The pH of bar soap can vary widely depending on the ingredients used. Choosing a soap with a pH that is balanced for the skin is important to prevent dryness, irritation, and other skin issues that can arise from using a soap with an unbalanced pH.
Look for soaps with a pH between 5 and 7, which is similar to the natural pH of the skin.
Differences Between Bar Soap and Body Wash
While both bar soap and body wash can effectively clean the skin, there are some differences between the two.
Bar soap may be a better choice for those with sensitive or dry skin, while body wash may be more appropriate for those with oily skin or who prefer a more luxurious shower experience.
Benefits of Natural and Organic Ingredients in Bar Soap
In addition to being a safe and effective choice for keeping the skin clean, bar soap can also provide additional benefits when natural and organic ingredients are used.
For example, adding ingredients like activated charcoal, tea tree oil, or honey can help to address specific skin concerns and provide added nourishment.
Are Washcloths and Sponges Hygienic?
While soap bars are perfectly hygienic the wash cloth, loofah or sponge you are using might be less so. They can often end up staying wet for prolonged periods and harbouring bacteria so it’s a good idea to make sure you wash them regularly and hang them up so they can dry out as fully and as quickly as possible.
It’s unlikely you will get ill from using a loofah that hasn’t been washed in a while but it’s possibly slightly more likely than the soap making you ill, if you think of the health consequences.
Bars of soap have been used for centuries and they are still a popular choice today. One reason for this is that they are very effective at cleansing the skin and removing dead skin cells. Hand soap can remove dirt, oil, and bacteria from the surface of the skin.
Bars of soap are usually enriched with moisturizing ingredients that can leave the skin feeling soft and smooth.
Another reason that people continue to use bars of soap is that they are very convenient. They can be used in the shower or bath, and they do not require any special dispensers.
Bars of soap are also easy to travel with and can be stored in a small space and can be used as hand soaps or as body wash. It has been proven that family members can share soap with no ill health effects.
Whilst they might harbour bacteria, several research studies have proven that this is not passed on unlike other breeding ground portals like light switches or cell phones.
Only if you have a very weakened immune system would you not consider sharing soap because of the bacterial levels which may pass onto human skin.
Finally, many people choose bars of soap because they are less expensive than liquid soap. Bars of soap typically last longer than their liquid counterparts, which makes them a more economical choice. A soap dispenser for liquid soap is usually a single use plastic bottle.
For all of these reasons, it is clear that bar soaps are not unhygienic. In fact, they are an effective and convenient way to cleanse the skin. If you are looking for a soap that is gentle on your skin and will leave it feeling soft and smooth, look for a bar of soap that contains moisturizing ingredients.
You may also want to consider trying a bar of soap that is made with natural ingredients, as these can be gentle on the skin and are often more affordable than brands that contain synthetic ingredients. So relax and know that your bar soap sanitary check is fine!
FAQs on Is Bar Soap Sanitary
Is bar soap sanitary to use?
Yes, bar soap is sanitary to use as long as it is used and stored properly. It is important to rinse the soap thoroughly after each use and to store it in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Can using bar soap spread germs?
Using bar soap does not necessarily spread germs. When used properly, bar soap can effectively remove dirt and bacteria from the skin. However, it is important to use a clean bar of soap each time and to avoid sharing soap with others to prevent the spread of germs.
Can bacteria grow on bar soap?
Bacteria can grow on bar soap if it is not stored properly or if it is not allowed to dry between uses. It is important to rinse the soap thoroughly after each use and to store it in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Is liquid soap more sanitary than bar soap?
Liquid soap is not necessarily more sanitary than bar soap. Both types of soap can be used effectively and hygienically if they are used and stored properly. However, liquid soap may be more convenient in certain situations, such as in public restrooms or in areas where multiple people may be sharing soap.
It is generally not recommended to share soap bars among family members to prevent the spread of germs. Each person should have their own bar of soap to use.
Can soap bars expire?
Soap bars do not typically expire, but they may lose their fragrance or effectiveness over time. It is best to use soap bars within 1-2 years of purchase.
Can bar soap be used on the face?
Bar soap can be used on the face, but it is important to choose a soap that is gentle and formulated for facial use. Some bar soaps may be too harsh for the delicate skin on the face.
Is bar soap environmentally friendly?
Bar soap is considered to be an environmentally friendly option, as it is often packaged in minimal or recyclable materials and does not require as much energy to produce as liquid soap.
